8½ (1963): cast, story & where to watch
1963 · Film · ★ 8.2
Released in 1963, 8½ is a fantasy and drama film directed by Federico Fellini, running about 139 minutes. “A picture that goes beyond what men think about - because no man ever thought about it in quite this way!” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Guido Anselmi, a film director, finds himself creatively barren at the peak of his career. Urged by his doctors to rest, Anselmi heads for a luxurious resort, but a sorry group gathers—his producer, staff, actors, wife, mistress, and relatives—each one begging him to get on with the show. In retreat from their dependency, he fantasizes about past women and dreams of his childhood.
Who’s in it. 8½ stars Marcello Mastroianni as Guido Anselmi, Claudia Cardinale as Claudia, Anouk Aimée as Luisa Anselmi and Sandra Milo as Carla, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 8.2/10, 8½ sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch 8½ page.
If you liked it. Fans of 8½ tend to enjoy The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, The Green Mile, Spirited Away and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch 8½ (1963)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for 8½ change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is 8½ worth watching?
- 8½ holds an audience score of 8.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy fantasy and drama. Most viewers rate it highly.
- Who stars in 8½?
- 8½ stars Marcello Mastroianni, Claudia Cardinale, Anouk Aimée, Sandra Milo and Rossella Falk.
- When was 8½ released?
- 8½ was released in 1963, with a runtime of about 139 minutes.